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There are many reasons you might experience neck pain, including poor posture, muscle strain, or injury. In some cases, albeit rarely, neck pain is brought on by a congenital problem. And though the causes of congenital neck pain are present at birth, they may not actually lead to symptoms until later in life.

Congenital Neck Pain: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a condition caused by the compression of a nerve bundle, veins, or arteries in the neck. This pressure on sensitive structures can lead to pain in the neck, as well as shoulder and arm discomfort. People with this disorder often experience dull, aching neck pain. In general, thoracic outlet syndrome occurs more frequently in women than in men.

Doctors aren't entirely sure what causes thoracic outlet syndrome, but underlying congenital defects seem to contribute. In many cases, people with thoracic outlet syndrome are born with an extra rib, called a cervical rib, which places stress on blood vessels in the neck. This pressure can lead to blood clots and impaired circulation. Treatment options for thoracic outlet syndrome include physical therapy as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief. Surgery can also be performed to remove the abnormal rib and repair any vascular damage.

Congenital Neck Pain: Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a congential problem in which the vertebrae (the bones that protect the spinal cord) are not aligned properly. The neck pain associated with this condition usually feels like a strained muscle.

In some cases, the condition may progress and surgery eventually becomes necessary to fuse the vertebrae together.

Congenital Neck Pain: Chiari Malformations (CMs)

A Chiari malformation is a structural problem that affects the cerebellum, the area of the brain that regulates balance. Before the widespread use of diagnostic imaging, the estimates were that one baby out of 1,000 had a Chiari malformation. Now, doctors think it probably occurs more frequently.

Chiari malformations cause the cerebellum and brainstem to be pushed down out of the skull and into the spinal canal. This often creates intense pressure, which can cause a variety of symptoms including neck pain. Some Chiari malformations don't cause any symptoms at all, while others lead to headache, dizziness, poor coordination, paralysis, or other neurological symptoms.

The goal of Chiari malformation treatment is to relieve symptoms. Therapies often include surgical placement of a shunt system to drain excess fluid associated with Chiari malformations, as well as surgery on the skull and vertebrae to offset pressure on the spinal column.

Congenital Neck Pain: When to See Your Doctor

In most cases, neck pain is the result of damage to the soft tissues in your neck caused by wear and tear over time. Neck pain due to a congenital defect is actually fairly rare.

If your neck pain is constant and persists over time, spreads down into your arms or legs, or is accompanied by headache, numbness, weakness, or tingling, it is possible that an underlying congenital problem is to blame. Don't hesitate to discuss your symptoms with your doctor so you can get the treatment you need.

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